Watts College launches program to fill jobs created by pending public service retirements
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Within the next decade, a “silver tsunami” of employees will retire from public service, according to Arizona State University School of Public Affairs Director Shannon Portillo.
The huge wave of retiring older workers will leave significant numbers of openings, Portillo said.
“In two to six years, there will be a huge need for well-trained workers who are prepared to jump in and get to work,” said Portillo, the Lattie and Elva Coor Presidential Chair.
Starting April 1, ASU students will be able to apply for the new three-year Accelerated Federal Career Track, part of the Next Generation Service Corps. Up to 20 students will be accepted into the program, which opens in fall 2025.
The corps is part of the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions-based Public Service Academy.
“This initiative will prepare ASU’s most talented students for leadership roles, specifically in the federal government. Students who join this program are three years out from joining the workforce,” Portillo said. “By the time they graduate, they’ll be ready to lead in the changing federal landscape. Graduates of this program will accelerate their careers due to the education and hands-on experience they receive.”
Scholarships are available to help cover participants’ educational costs.
Here is an overview of the components of the program, which will be taught in person, on campus:
- Leadership development: Students in the Accelerated Federal Career Track will serve as active members of the Next Generation Service Corps for four semesters, during which they will spend 10 to 15 hours a month engaging in required events, service activities and networking opportunities.
- Three credentials in three years: Corps members will complete a bachelor’s degree, earn a certificate in cross-sector leadership and graduate with a Master of Public Administration from ASU's top-ranked School of Public Affairs — all within an accelerated timeline.
- Real-world experience in Washington, D.C.: Students will spend a full calendar year, from June to May, in the nation’s capital, interning with a federal agency or organization while completing advanced graduate coursework.
- Financial support for the journey: Students will earn a Public Service Academy Scholarship for seven semesters of study, along with a Frank J. Sackton Fellowship for graduate-level courses and summer classes in Washington, D.C.
Next Generation Service Corps Director Kimberly Baldwin said many complex factors are giving rise to an urgent, increasing need for graduates trained as character-driven, cross-sector leaders who will be well positioned to bring their skills and knowledge to their careers.
“By combining rigorous academic coursework, experiential learning and leadership development, the program provides a direct pipeline to federal service while fostering a new generation of public servants capable of addressing society's most pressing challenges,” Baldwin said.
Competitive applications — for full-time undergraduate, in-state students only — will be accepted starting April 1. Application criteria include a minimum 3.40 grade point average, a passion for federal government work and a demonstrated commitment to service and leadership. First-generation students and students with high financial need are strongly encouraged to apply.
To apply for the program, students will need to have completed between 60 to 79 credits by June 1, with plans to graduate no sooner than spring 2027.
The deadline to apply is June 1.
Two virtual information sessions will be held the first week of April. Both are Arizona time (MST):
- 12:30 to 1 p.m., Wednesday, April 2.
- 4:30 to 5 p.m., Thursday, April 3.
Click here to sign up for an information session, find out more or apply.
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